The freights trains running through western Queens continue to pose a health hazard, according to area residents pushing for city intervention on the matter.

Glendale community activists Mary Arnold and Mary Parisen and others brought the issue before Community Board 5 for the second month in a row on October 14.

This time around, their efforts to solve an old problem might pay off.

Concerned residents say the railway companies New York and Atlantic (a subsidiary of Anacostia and Pacific Company) and CSX continue to operate outdated freight cars, some powered by diesel engines that emit high levels of nitrous oxide.

Arnold called for the companies to purchase newer, more eco-friendly equipment. She also said the railway companies neglect to care for the land along the train tracks, which cut through residential neighborhoods like Glendale and Middle Village.

“We hope we can all work together to correct this situation,” Arnold said.

Gary Giordano, CB5’s district manager, agreed the problem exists, but said little can be done unless the railway companies agree to cooperate.

“We need all the help we can get to get them to be more cooperative,” Giordano said, referring specifically to New York and Atlantic. “Railways seem to have a lot more freedom them virtually anyone else and that’s a problem.”

A representative for Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley said her office is also working on the issue. (Daniel Bush)